Milwaukee, WI Weather Forecast & Climate Guide
Milwaukee has a humid continental climate strongly influenced by Lake Michigan.
Climate type: Humid continental (Köppen Dfa/Dfb)
Milwaukee Climate Overview
Cold winters with lake effect snow. Warm summers moderated by lake breezes.
Lake effect enhances winter snow. Arctic outbreaks bring dangerous cold.
Milwaukee Weather by Season
spring
Spring is cool and slow to arrive. Lake Michigan keeps the lakefront cool well into May, and lake-breeze fronts can drop temperatures 20°F in minutes.
summer
Summers are warm and humid with highs in the upper 70s°F along the lake, moderated by cool breezes. The Summerfest music festival draws crowds to the lakefront in late June.
fall
Fall is pleasant with crisp September days in the 60s-70s°F and vivid foliage in October. By November, the first significant snow arrives.
winter
Winters are cold and snowy with highs in the upper 20s°F and lows in the teens°F. Lake-effect and nor'easter-style storms combine for 47 inches of annual snowfall.
Milwaukee Average Monthly Temperatures
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 29° | 33° | 43° | 55° | 66° | 76° | 81° | 79° | 71° | 58° | 45° | 33° |
| Low °F | 15° | 19° | 27° | 37° | 46° | 57° | 63° | 62° | 54° | 42° | 31° | 20° |
Best Time to Visit Milwaukee
June through September — warm weather, lake breezes, outdoor festivals, and long daylight hours. Summerfest in late June and early July is a highlight.
Severe Weather Risks
- Blizzards
- Lake-effect snow
- Polar vortex outbreaks
- Severe thunderstorms
- Tornadoes
Weather Facts About Milwaukee
- >Lake Michigan creates a "lake breeze" that can keep the lakefront 15°F cooler than inland Milwaukee on summer afternoons.
- >Milwaukee averages 47 inches of snow per year, with lake-effect bands delivering some of the biggest storms.
- >The city sits on the same latitude as Toronto and Portland, OR — but has far more extreme winters than either.
Milwaukee Weather FAQ
When is the best time to visit Milwaukee?
Late June through August for warm weather, outdoor festivals (Summerfest), and lake activities. September is also great with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
How cold does Milwaukee get?
Average winter highs are in the upper 20s°F with lows in the teens°F. Arctic outbreaks can drop temperatures below zero, and wind chills along the lakefront can feel much colder.
Does Lake Michigan affect Milwaukee weather?
Significantly. The lake moderates temperatures year-round — cooler summers and milder winters along the shore. Lake breezes can drop afternoon temperatures 15-20°F near the water.
How much snow does Milwaukee get?
About 47 inches per year on average. Lake-effect snow bands can dump 6-12 inches on the city while nearby suburbs stay dry. Nor'easter-style storms are also common.